Hand held vacuum cleaners are a great asset when it comes to portability and speed of use. Getting the canister or upright vacuum cleaner out to start hoovering can become a bit of chore when you start thinking about the time it takes to assemble the hose, fit the appropriate brush or crevice tool to the tube and you will need to move it to where you want to begin the vacuuming.

With hand held vacuums you pick up the appliance and start straight away. Hand helds vacuums are deceptively powerful appliances giving a correspondingly powerful suction to get up all the bits. Some dirt can be really stubborn as it doesn’t seem as if it wants to be hoovered up. That’s where the powerful suction helps do the job. You don’t want a hand held vacuum that’s too heavy to hold in one hand, and about 5 pounds weight is about right, and not too cumbersome.

Cord lead is another factor to consider and I like a vacuum with a reach of around 20 feet. This is enough to give the user a good area of coverage without the need to change to a new power socket or resort to an extension cable. The main benefit of a hand held vacuum cleaner is that it can pick up the dust and dirt from those hard to reach places such as you typically find in car upholstery and on stair carpets where the dust gathers in the crease. The crevice tool attachment tool was designed specifically for those kind of vacuuming situations.

Hand held vacuums can also clean in those hard to reach places in cupboards and wardrobes. An upright carpet cleaner with a hose attachment and a crevice tool could do the job just as well. The main difference between these two types of vacuum is the size. Also the typical reach of the upright vacuum hose might not be as much as in the hand held vacuum, it depends on the specifications for the appliance.

Small vacuum attachments can easily be mislaid so it’s always a good idea to keep them together. On many makes of vacuum these are often attached to the vacuum cleaner itself, which is just where they are needed.

After vacuuming the hand held vacuum cleaner needs to be emptied of the dust and debris it has collected, and when it comes to choosing any type of vacuum cleaner it is best to see what’s involved first in this respect before buying. Usually all you need do is empty the dust cap, clean the dust cap filter and inspect the motor filter. You might also need to wash away the dirt and allow the filter to dry before you can resume vacuum operations.

Overall Amazon UK Rating: 4.4 out 0f 5 stars.

If you are looking for a professional drill driver which is comfortable and easy to use, while at the same time delivering powerful performance the Dewalt DC740KA 12 Volt Professional Drill Driver could be the one for you.

The Dewalt DC740KA is the ideal weight for combined drilling and driving, and its compact design makes it the number one choice for working in confined spaces. The trigger and rubber grip are ergonomically designed for comfort and ease of use.

Buy Now On Amazon UK

The two speed gear box, a variable speed trigger and reverse switch give maximum control, reduces drill wandering and gives more bit life.

The Dewalt DC740KA drill driver has 14 position adjustable torque control for consistent screwdriving into a variety of different materials. There is an electric motor brake for added control, and all metal gearing for efficient power transmission and longer tool life.

Its one thing talking about how good a product is, but the real test comes when customers write their reviews after having purchased and used the product. This is what I found on Amazon UK.

The most helpful favourable review reads:

153 of 155 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Professional performance for amateur price

I use one of these at work and the balance, speed/torque performance is superb and up to everything you’d expect from a professional 12v drill. We reckon DeWalt is the “Rolls Royce”. This one is an ideal weight for work combining drilling and driving. Let’s face it, if you are doing a lot of large diameter holes in masonry and no screwdriving you would get…. click here to read this review in full.

The most helpful critical review on Amazon UK reads:

16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars handy but not for heavy duty work

I have owned mine as an addition to my dewalt tools for site work.This is ideal for work using 2″ screws or less or small diameter drilling as batteries last for ever,but …….click here to read this and more reviews on Amazon UK.

There is one method, however, of getting insights into who makes the best power tools, and that is to study consumer reports. These reports are a good starting point for those looking for an overall picture of which power tools perform the best. But make sure you read the criteria on which the ratings are based, which could be, for example, what the tool is used for.

You often find that friends or colleagues recommend their favorite brand of power tool, based on their own experience of using it. There is much word of mouth recommendation when it comes to deciding who makes the best power tools, and you can be sure, there is bound to be some disagreement. We all have our favorite brand of power tool which we often rigorously defend when others say theirs is a better make.

I know what my favorite make of power tool is, the Bosch 1590EVSK jigsaw.

Given that cordless drill drivers are sold at low and high prices, why should you spend you hard earned money on an expensive model when you could buy a cheaper drill driver? If you are asking yourself that question you must realize by now that the answer is always, you get what you pay for.

The plain fact is, that a more powerful cordless drill driver will be more pleasurable to use, and will benefit you more than a cheaper model, because it will be more efficient at what it does. Can you imagine the difference a well manufactured, precision power tool can make to those DIY jobs? Try it and see for yourself, by borrowing one from a friend if you do not already have one. Let me tell you, I would rather use the expensive one.

What To Look For When Choosing A Good Quality Cordless Drill Driver

1. Speed. You need high speed for drilling and a low speed for screw-driving. It can be incredibly frustrating when your screwdriver is not powerful enough to drive a screw in all the way.
2. When reading the manufacturers description, look for a drill driver which is powerful enough for your needs. My preference is for a 10.8 volt tool, though you can buy more or less powerful tools than this voltage.
3. Comfort and ease of use are important factors, especially when you might be using this power tool for an extended period of time. Try handling the tool first before you buy, to see how it feels.
4. Batteries. The best plan is to have at least two batteries charged up and ready for use. I prefer batteries which are not too heavy in weight, which charge quickly and at the same time hold their charge for longer.
5. Buy one with an LED light. You won’t regret it.

If you are going to spend money on power tools it is always worth your while looking at the range of cordless drill drivers on the market, and deciding which one is the best fit for your pocket, both in terms of cost, and for convenience in carrying around with you on the job.

So where do you start planning for your outdoor shed?

1. Have a look around your property with an eye to best locations. Choose one that best suits your situation.

2. It is better to build the shed on level ground, that is situated in open ground, and has good drainage and light. Wooden sheds will last several years if you do not subject them to the ravages of wind and water.

3. Decide what size of shed you want. 12×12 storage shed plans are a popular choice with DIYers, but you can build it any size you like. It is best to plan shed a little larger than you think you will need.

3. This is where you look at some shed plans, from a variety of sources, be it the internet or your local hardware store. I like to look at pictures as my starting point for a new shed plan. Looks and size are important. Make your choice of material at this stage as well. I prefer sheds made of wood.

4. Before you go any further, you can choose to buy a shed kit, if this will suit your needs. If you decide to build the shed yourself, then a set of step by step shed plans are needed.

5. Take you shed plans to the lumber yard to buy the correct size and type of wood that you need, plus any other tools and safety gear that you need if you are building the shed yourself. If you do not already own a corded or cordless driver drill, I would recommend you read my review of the Makita 10.8v LCT203W, or the Bosch 1590EVSK Jig saw.

6. Finally, it is crunch time, that is time to build the shed. All the preparation and planning is completed and you are ready to go. This is why sheds for plans are so important. The finished construction depends on how accurate these are. If is your first self build, why not ask a more experienced friend to help you. You can learn a lot from a knowledgeable and skilled led woodworker, or someone who does this for a living.

7. If all this sounds a bit daunting, there is a product which will walk you through all this, and you can learn more about this by clicking the link. If you choose to buy a shed kit then none of this applies to you. But if you decide to build your own shed then the right plans for sheds are important, and you are more likely to be satisfied with the end result.

These powerful yet compact Makita cordless tools are built for maintenance professionals, repairmen, remodelers, electricians, cabinet installers, and any general contractor seeking an ultra compact cordless driver drill and impact driver with pro power and pro speed.

Click Here To Get The Makita 10.8v on Amazon

Benefits of these Makita cordless tools.

Being small and compact, these tools offer the best power-to-weight ratio. As they are small and light weight they are comfortable to hold, and are less likely to strain the hand and arm muscles, which can sometimes happen with prolonged use of power tools.

The Makita 10.8v combo is easy to carry around and small enough to fit into a jacket pocket or tool belt.

Quick change ability, so there is no need for a chuck wrench.

The Makita driver drill and the impact driver both have a bright LED light in the front of it which helps to see what you are doing. This is beneficial when working in tight locations where there is not much natural light to work with.

These Makita cordless tools are great for keeping around the house and are perfect for woodworking jobs, plumbing, and those many around the house type chores which arise.

The Makita LCT203W includes two 10.8V Ultra-Compact Lithium-Ion batteries and an ENERGY STAR rated battery charger for efficient charging power and less downtime on the job site. Having two batteries means you can have one charging while you use the other.

Comes with a metallic case into which the tools fit snuggly. There is also a pocket to carry the manual and safety glasses.

Technical Specifications of the Makita combo kit.

The Makita lithium drill is a two speed driver drill (0-350 / 0-1,300 RPM) which delivers 200 in.lbs. of Max Torque in an ultra compact size of only 1.9 lbs

The Makita impact driver drill is a variable speed driver which provides 800 in.lbs. of Max Torque in an ultra compact design of only 2.0 lbs.

Makita lithium drill

The Makita 10.8v combo is powered by lithium ion battery. These batteries have one of the best energy to weight ratios and are a popular choice in many portable, electrically powered devices. They tend to hold their charge longer as this type of battery discharges slowly.

Battery Life

For the technically minded the Makita 10.8v combo lithium ion battery and Energy Star rated Makita charger produces 430% total lifetime work with 2.5X more cycles.

The LCT203W is one of a range of Makita kits.

How Much Should You Exoect To Pay?

At the time of writing, the Makita LCT203W is selling for well under $200, and Amazon has the best price.

What’s Included?

Makita Driver Drill

Makita Impact Driver

Two 10.8V Lithium-Ion batteries

Battery charger

Tool case

Does It Include A Warranty?

Every Makita Lithium-Ion tool is backed by Makita’s 3-Year Warranty that covers repair due to defects in materials or workmanship up to three years from the date of original purchase. Makita Lithium-Ion batteries and chargers have a limited 1-Year Warranty.

What Others Are Saying

The Makita 10.8v is a popular and reliable cordless power tool, so not surprisingly it has a rating of 4.5 stars out 5 on the Amazon marketplace.

This is what a selection of customers who have bought the Makita 10.8v LCT203W are saying:

“Impressive power and performance”

“Great Compact Pair of Tools”

“Good little set!”

“Makita’s dynamic duo”

“Fantastic For the Size”

“Best tool purchase in years”

“Best Tool Ive ever purchased”

“Perfect for wide range of use”

Where Can I Read More Reviews of the Makita 10.8-Volt LCT203W Compact Lithium-Ion Two-Piece Combo Kit?

Amazon is the best place to read these from the customers who have bought and used the Makita 10.8v. Click here to read them.

Faced with the prospect of choosing a corded versus a cordless jigsaw, I would go with the corded models. They deliver more power, which means you get the job done quicker. Typically the corded jigsaw has a motor between 3.5 to 6 amps. The more powerful the motor the thicker the material it can cut through. That’s not to dismiss the cordless models, though not so powerful, they come into their own where space is limited, and you are cutting through thinner materials.

A variable speed jigsaw allows the user to adjust the speed according to the demands of the job, and allows for better control. Jigsaws typically have speeds ranging between 500 to 3,100 strokes per minute.

An orbital action jigsaw is an advantage as the combined side to side and up and down motion make for more speedy cutting. The benefits of the orbital action jigsaw also include a smoother cut, and less wear and tear on the jigsaw blades.

A jigsaw with a footplate angle adjustment allows angle cuts up to 45% in either direction.

A chip blower helps to keep the cutting line clear of chips.

When it comes to changing jigsaw blades, a one touch, tool-less blade changing system has definite advantages. It speeds up the job, saves time, and there is no need to touch hot blades. The Bosch reciprocating saw has this one-touch technology which also enables you to change blades with one hand.

Look for a model which cuts straight. Blade wander is a problem with jigsaws, but some models such as the Bosch 1590evsk have advanced features to counteract this tendency.

Choose a jigsaw which feels good when you hold it. The two grip types are barrel and top handle.

There is nothing like the reviews of others who have bought and used the model of jigsaw you are interested in. You can typically find these customer reviews on shopping sites such as Amazon.

To read my review of the Bosch jig saw click the link.

What To Look For In A Jigsaw

Choose an orbital action jigsaw, one that feels comfortable to hold, and with an easy blade changing system. An orbital action jigsaw moves the blades from side to side and angles the blade slightly forward into the stock on the up swing. These jigsaws are better because the blades cut faster, give a smoother cut, which can lessen wear on the jigsaw blades. The Bosch 1590EVSK is an orbital action jigsaw.

Corded Or Cordless Jigsaw?

Corded jigsaws are better because of the greater power needed for cutting through metal or hardwood. Cordless jigsaws are undoubtedly better in tight spaces, but they are limited by the available cutting time, and are probably better suited to softer woods only. If I had not researched that I would probably have bought a cordless jigsaw and perhaps regretted it later. The Bosch 1590EVSK is a corded jigsaw.

Keeping The Bosch Jigsaw Straight

In straightforward language you want the jigsaw blade to cut in a straight line. Every feature the jigsaw can offer the user to achieve that aim is to be welcomed. This is important because you need to know how the manufacturer handles this problem of the jigsaw not cutting straight, as you don’t normally get to try a jigsaw before you buy. The Bosch 1590EVSK has a Precision Control System that eliminates blade wander for precise cuts.

Accumulating dust can also make it hard to keep a straight cut. The Bosch 1590EVSK adjustable dust blower keeps the cutting line clear.

Quick Change Bosch Jigsaw Blades To Finish The Job Faster

Choose a jigsaw which enables you to change the blades quickly. The Bosch1590 uses One-Touch blade technology which allows the blades to be changed rapidly, and with one hand.

Turn On The Power!

The more power a jigsaw has the easier it cuts through thicker materials. The Bosch jig saw has a 6.4 Amp motor which will do the job faster. Look for a jigsaw that has the facility to maintain a constant speed through the entire cut. The Bosch jig saw has this feature.

Variable Speed Jigsaw

Using a variable speed jigsaw allows you to slow the motor down when making more intricate cuts. The Bosch 1590EVSK has this facility. A variable speed jigsaw offers better control, allowing you to preset the sawing speed depending on the material you are cutting.

Anti Splinter Insert

One of my biggest worries when using a jigsaw is that I might cause the wood to splinter. The Bosch 1590EVSK comes with an anti splinter insert to minimize this risk. All you do is place the insert in the blade opening of the footplate. It can be placed in two positions in the footplate, one is for narrow jigsaw blades the other is for wide ones.

How Much Would You Expect To Pay?

The cheapest price for the Bosch 1590EVSK 6.4 Amp Top Handle Jigsaw is currently on Amazon.

What’s Included?

Bosch 1590EVSK 6.4 Amp Top Handle Jigsaw

Precision wood blade (T144DP)

Progressor metal blade (T123X)

Tight kerf blade (T244D)

Zero-clearance insert

Non-marring footplate

Carrying case

Is There A Warranty?

Yes, the Bosch 1590EVSK 6.4 Amp Top Handle Jigsaw has a one-year warranty, 30-day money back guarantee, and one-year service protection plan.

What Others Are Saying

“very smooth jigsaw”

“Great Jig Saw”

“even an amateur can use this saw with pleasure, confidence”

“This thing is great!”

“Best ever!”

“Super high-quality Jigsaw”

“awesome awesome tool”

“Great jigsaw for DIY’er”

Where Can You Buy The Bosch 1590EVSK 6.4 Amp Top Handle Jigsaw?

Currently the best deal is on Amazon, and this product also qualifies for the FREE shipping option. Click here to view the item on Amazon.

Where Can You Read More Reviews Of The Bosch 1590EVSK 6.4 Amp Top Handle Jigsaw?

The best place to read reviews is Amazon, from the customers who have bought and used this product. Click here to read more.

It depends on the angle of the slope you are building into as well. Once you have cleared the site, you would need to remove any danger of the earth slipping back on to the shed, and causing damage. That might mean building a retaining wall of some kind. I would definitely think about having concrete foundations for this structure.

To get some more ideas, I would ask a builder to come and look at the sight, with a view to giving you a free quotation. Even if you do not intend to commit to have him build the shed for you, he will give you an expert opinion on what needs to be done, and that’s all you really need to know. He will also advise you on the materials and supports needed to ensure you have a solid and safe construction.

Only you know the answer to the question, and if you have never done a project like this before you will never know unless you try. You can help yourself by giving yourself as much chance of success as you can. Planning and preparation is key when it comes to building your own shed.

Failure is the probable result if the project is badly thought out, and you do not buy the right materials. You can always pay someone to put it right of course, but that is not the priority.

How can you give yourself the best chance of successfully building your own shed? By following some good step by step DIY shed plans for a start. Then I would ask a knowledgeable friend to help you. Preferably someone who either does this for a living, or someone who has already built a shed, and knows what is involved. They will likely have all the tools and know how you need as well.

The ideal scenario is to work with someone who has advanced DIY skills. You can learn a lot in a short space of time by doing this, and it beats trying to learn from books and the internet.

My advice is to think the project through before making the commitment to build your own shed. Try to find out what is involved first. By doing some basic research, and talking to the people who actually sell these products, and those who have bought them ,if possible, you can come to a sensible decision, and perhaps save yourself some time and money as well.